Undoubtedly, many of us have dealt with a fair amount of physical, mental, or financial stress due to COVID-19. In the dental field, we often see stress manifest itself in patient complaints of pain in the jaw and/or around the ear, all caused by clenching or grinding their teeth and stressing the jaw muscles. Clinical evidence of bruxism, depending on duration, points to worn dentition, chipped teeth, worn incisal edges, broken restorations, and abfraction. In the TMJ area, we’re often able to hear popping or clicking sounds.
There have been many treatments, both chemical and mechanical, advocated over time. Recently, I was introduced to the antibruxism appliance GrindReliefN. This unique, one-visit appliance requires no impressions, models, laboratory fees, or waiting for the lab to return said appliance. The appliance is fitted in the office by the dentist, hygienist, or trained auxiliary, with a simple three-step technique:
- Soften in warm water
- Have the patient bite down to form the custom appliance
- Cool in tap water
If necessary, the same appliance can be refitted. You can use it either on the maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth, thus providing maximum comfort. The product comes with an appliance case for the patient and has a three-year “wear-through” guarantee. Overall, GrindReliefN is a beneficial product that is cost-effective for both the patient (product may be covered by insurance via several CDT codes) and the dentist.
Howard Glazer, DDS, FAGD, is a columnist for Dental Economics. He is a key opinion leader in dental products and maintains a general practice in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Dr. Glazer is a fellow and past president of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). He lectures frequently on the subjects of dental materials, cosmetic dentistry, forensic dentistry, and patient management.
